Jenavive- Indie Rock- Calgary, AB

Jenavive is a self-titled Canadian indie rock band from Calgary, Alberta in Canada that formed in 2010. Their wide background of musical tastes has influenced their live and studio sound. Their signature style is sweet yet powerful vocals over a backdrop of genre-blending, pop culture inspired indie rock.

Jenavive kindly answered my questions and hopefully you learn a little about this wonderful Canadian band.

What got you into being a musician?I’ve been playing piano my whole life. My parents really encouraged me to learn an instrument and I kept at it. Now I can teach piano and a couple other instruments. I always wanted to sing when I was younger but it took a while to get the nerve to do it.

How long have been a musician?Forever!

Who are your major influences?I love listening to live music. I try to see a new band every week so my influences are always changing. I really love Muse. They’re probably my favourite band ever. Lately I’ve been listening to Childish Gambino, Die Antwoord, Radiohead and Kate Bush.

What do you like most about playing music as a career?That’s tough. I love meeting fans and playing to new crowds. Performing in general is pretty stellar. Writing is a lot of fun too.

The music of Jenavive

What are the main themes or topics for your songs?Probably relationships. I tend process my emotions by writing.

Where do you get your inspiration for the music you write?Usually I’m really pissed off at someone. It grows from there.

Do you think the themes of your songs will change over time?I think as we grow older we change and our opinions change. So yes. I believe my music will change as my life experience does. Write what you know.

How has your music evolved since you first began playing music?When I first started writing songs it was just me and my piano. Now they’ve evolved to epic electro dance rock with a full band. The subjects are still relatively similar but the style has changed a lot.

Any advice for young musicians looking to get into music as a career?Be prepared for a lot of no’s. It’s important to be yourself and do something you’re proud of. Don’t bend to what others want you to do. Practice, practice, practice.

What are your favorite and least favorite gig?I love playing festivals! The atmosphere is fantastic.I’m not a huge fan of playing solo. I really love having my band with me so I guess least favourite gig would be coffee shops?

Do you ever play any covers? What makes you chose that song(s)?Covers are great! Usually I try to pick something I really like singing and that I think our fans will like. Sometimes the guys pick a song they want to play. We add one or two covers to every set.

Which song(s) do you like performing the most?I love power belting. Anything with lots of big notes!!

What has been your biggest challenge as a musician?Not killing my band mates. Just kidding. We spend a lot of time together. They’re like brother. Actually my guitar player IS my brother lol

Do you have any upcoming shows?Lots! We’re taking off on tour in May. Details will be constantly updated on our webpage.

Any music in the works for future release?This year we are working on a concept album called Spider. It’s being released in four parts over the next few months and then the final release will have it in it’s entirety (including b sides and remixes). Spades – the first EP of four coming this year was released on February 28th. Hearts will be out in May. Clubs in July, and Diamonds in September. You will be able to get the entire Spider record as a limited release in October 2013.

How can fans-to-be gain access to your music?Our webpage is probably the best place to start. Otherwise we are everywhere (Links below 😀 )

Any last words or anything to add/promote?I love chatting with people so get in touch! Visit us on tour or find us on facebook and twitter -J